Volunteer Power: Why Community Clubs Like Ashfield Pirates FC Thrive on Local Support

Behind every great football club stands an army of volunteers, and at Ashfield Pirates FC, they’re the heartbeat of everything we do.

Without volunteers, there is no grassroots football. No canteen. No field setup. No coaching or managing. No junior development. No community spirit.

The Pirates would not exist without our volunteers.

Why Volunteers Matter More Than Anything

Volunteers contribute far more than time. They bring:

• energy

• kindness

• leadership

• patience

• community spirit

They shape how kids experience football. They create the culture families talk about. They turn “a club” into “our club.”

The Adam Spencer-Carr Award: Honouring Extraordinary Volunteers

Every year we honour one volunteer who goes above and beyond.

The award is named after Adam Spencer-Carr, co-founder of Ashfield Pirates FC and a beloved member of our community who sadly passed away months before the club was approved.

This award is more than recognition, it is the emotional core of our club values.

Recipients embody:

• selflessness

• reliability

• humility

• service

• true Pirates spirit

In 2025, the award was given to Atlas, Adam’s son, a beautiful moment witnessed by Adam’s mother Philippa and step-father Rob. Atlas had coached, mentored, setup fields, and supported the club at a level far beyond his years.

Volunteering builds legacy.

How Volunteering Strengthens the Whole Club

Volunteers help create:

• a welcoming environment

• strong teams

• healthy club finances

• better communication

• well-run matchdays

• opportunities for kids to grow

Parents often tell us they feel more connected after volunteering even once.

What Families Can Do

Every family is encouraged to contribute in small ways:

• Two canteen shifts per season

• Two field setup/pack-up duties

• Helping the coach or manager

• Joining the committee

• Supporting events like Presentation Day

No role is too small — every contribution matters.

Why People Love Volunteering for the Pirates

Our volunteers say they get:

• new friendships

• a sense of belonging

• pride in helping kids

• leadership skills

• unforgettable memories

Volunteering makes the club better, but it also makes you better.

A Club Built by the Community, for the Community

Ashfield Pirates FC is proof that when people give a little, the club gives back a lot. Our volunteers are the reason our culture is strong, our programs succeed, and our players thrive.

Honouring Extraordinary Volunteers